Kiki Iriafen: Nigerian-born WNBA star makes case for ROTY with Mystics win

Nigerian-born forward Kiki Iriafen showcased her dominance, leading the Washington Mystics to a 95-86 victory over the Los Angeles Sparks in the WNBA.

Iriafen recorded her fourth consecutive double-double as the Mystics recorded a wire-to-wire win.

Iriafen continued her rapid rise as a key player in the league with a strong showing.

This comes after she made her first three-point shot in the game against the Indiana Fever.

Iriafen, who was selected fourth overall by the Mystics in the 2025 WNBA Draft, contributed 18 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists.

She had an efficient 5/9 field goal percentage and was able to get to the free throw line.

Her consistency has led to her averaging 17.0 points and 10.2 rebounds over her last five games.

The 22-year-old, who hails from Los Angeles, had help from rookie teammate Sonia Citron.

Citron exploded for 24 points, including 5 three-pointers, and added 3 assists.

The third overall pick has formed a decent guard and post combination with Iriafen on the Mystics.

With Iriafen and Citron as a threat, the Mystics are dark horses in the Eastern Conference.